Jobs in Qatar for expats
Jobs in Qatar are mainly located in the capital city, where there are hundreds of offices and business centers providing work for expats. Qatar is an extremely wealthy country and is an Arab emirate. It is also known for being the third largest nation in the world with gas reserves and the highest GDP per capita in the world today. Doha is the capital of Qatar and this is the place where all things happen.
Types of labor sectors
The nation’s thriving economy has played a significant role in attracting expatriates to the country. The main sector that employs the largest number of expatriates in Qatar is the oil and gas industry. Other sectors where jobs in Qatar are available to expats include education, entertainment, technology, research, sports, and science.
Salaries and Benefits
With a growing economy in the country, employees get better salaries. According to a reputable website, the salaries of top managers in the respective industries in 2012 were $12,680 (HR), $12,451 (Sales/Marketing), 11,985 (Construction), $11,584 (Banking), $11,413 ( IT), $10,504 (Real Estate), $10,428 Public Relations. $9,968 (Advertising), $9,282 (Hospitality). Expats don’t get government benefits like natives, but their employers will cover health care costs and insurance. However, the private organization may offer advantages depending on the job and position. Taxes here are minimal, giving you room to spend or save for the future.
cost of living
Although you can expect all the modern conveniences in a great lifestyle, you will have to pay the price as the cost of living in Qatar is higher than in other countries. A furnished two-bedroom apartment can cost QAR 9,000 to QAR 18,000 per month in a decent location. As for transportation costs, the taxi fare is around QAR 2.26/km and the bus fare in the city center is QAR 10. Renting a small car can cost around QAR 3000 per month, but gasoline is cheap.
Education
Although the level of education is good in Qatar, expats cannot use the free public education facilities that are for locals only. Expats can send their children to private and international schools. While early childhood and primary education can cost around QAR 20,000/year, secondary and higher education can cost around QAR 50,000/year.
Also, extra expenses for things like tuition, uniform, books, extracurricular activities, etc.
Entertainment and nightlife
This is what makes it attractive to work here. A city of entertainment has been established for expats and locals alike. Nightlife is picking up in Doha as there are some exciting nightclubs and bars. There is a good selection of restaurants also serving local and international cuisine. There is the Doha Sports City which helps to develop the sport in various sports fields. The way of living there is different from other countries, so one must be well prepared and know the culture as well.
Work and residence permit in Qatar
To accept a job in Qatar, you essentially need a work permit which is called a work residence permit. However, you must have a valid employment contract in Qatar and a local employer to sponsor the expatriate visa. Also, during the time an entry visa is converted to a work residence visa, the expatriate must remain in Qatar.
Working hours in Qatar
In Qatar, the weekly hours in private organizations are between 40 and 48 hours and in government organizations, between 35 and 40 hours. While government offices work from 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, private offices are open from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm Shops are open from 8 am to 1 pm and from 4 pm to 7 pm. However, during the days of Ramadan, the working hours are more relaxed and are reduced to 6 hours per day.
Sources to find work
You can search for jobs in Qatar from various sources, such as online job portals, local newspaper classifieds, and recruitment agents. Also, you can apply directly on the company portal.